10/26/2023
PSA (Public Service Announcement) for PSA test (Prostate Specific Antigen)
As a retired pharmacist, I know how important it is to take care of your health and follow your doctor's advice. Prostate cancer is a common type of cancer that affects men, especially as they get older, although it can start in the early forties. It occurs when the cells in the prostate gland grow abnormally and form tumors.
Some of the symptoms of prostate cancer are difficulty urinating, blood in the urine, pain in the lower back or pelvis, and ED. However, some men may not have any symptoms at all like me. That is why it is recommended to get regular screenings for prostate cancer, such as a PSA test.
I had monitored my PSA results since 2007 as my dad had prostate cancer. In the last 2 years the PSA number had doubled. Consulted a urologist at UVA after I had 2 MRI’s, CT scan, 2 sets of biopsies, and a PSMA PET scan. Cancer was found in May 2023. I decided to have the prostate removed, which is called a radical prostatectomy, after consulting a urology oncologist and a radiation oncologist at UVA. The cancer was contained in the prostate and did not spread to the pelvis or bone.
The surgery was successful and now recovery has begun.
I am sharing my story to raise awareness and encourage other men to get screened for prostate cancer. Early detection and treatment can improve your chances of survival and recovery. Prostate cancer is not a death sentence, but it is a serious condition that requires attention and care. Please, please, please encourage the males in your life, father, grandfather, husband, son, brothers, significant other, to have their doctor order a PSA test. It is a simple blood test, and it can save their life.
Thank you all for your prayers.
Dave